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Abscess and Cellulitis

Pus-forming (abscess) or diffuse (cellulitis) inflammatory conditions caused by bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Genel Cerrahi department. Book Appointment →

What is Abscess and Cellulitis?

An abscess is a collection of pus (pus) encapsulated by surrounding tissue, formed by bacteria in the skin or tissue. The most common causative agent is Staphylococcus aureus; MRSA infections are becoming increasingly common.

Cellulitis, on the other hand, is a diffuse, unbounded bacterial inflammation of the skin and subcutaneous tissue. It presents with redness, swelling, and increased warmth; it carries a risk of sepsis. It is most commonly seen in the lower extremities.

Necrotizing fasciitis (including Fournier's gangrene) is a life-threatening polymicrobial soft-tissue infection that rapidly destroys deep tissue and fascial layers. This condition requires emergency surgical debridement.

Symptoms

Localized swelling, redness, warmth, and pain (abscess)
Fluctuation on the skin surface
Fever and chills
Severe pain with even light touch of the affected area
In cellulitis, ill-defined spreading redness and edema
Lymph node enlargement and red streak (lymphangitis)

Risk Factors

Diabetes (immunosuppression and vascular insufficiency)
Immune system suppression (corticosteroids, chemotherapy)
Obesity and venous insufficiency
Disruption of skin integrity (wound, insect bite, surgery)
Intravenous drug use
Peripheral vascular disease

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If redness is spreading rapidly or fever accompanies
  • Swelling with fluctuation or spontaneous discharge
  • Any skin infection in diabetic or immunosuppressed patients
  • Severe pain and rapidly progressing tissue discoloration (suspected necrotizing fasciitis — emergency)
  • If no response is obtained to antibiotic therapy within 48-72 hours

Treatment Methods

01
Abscess drainage: incision and drainage (I&D) is the primary treatment; antibiotics alone are not sufficient
02
Antibiotic therapy: beta-lactam for cellulitis or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole / vancomycin in suspected MRSA
03
Wound care and healing follow-up with regular dressings
04
Necrotizing fasciitis: emergency wide surgical debridement and intensive care-supported broad-spectrum IV antibiotics
05
Management of underlying risk factors (diabetes control, venous insufficiency treatment)
06
In case of recurrence, MRSA screening and use of biocidal soap

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Genel Cerrahi department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.